Etta James has been battling health issues, but the "At Last" singer's manager and friend Lupe De Leon tells CNN that she's now terminally ill.

“Etta James is at the last stages of her terminal illness," De Leon says.

The singer, 73, was diagnosed with leukemia along with hepatitis C over a year ago, and with Alzheimer's disease in 2009. The singer is currently residing at her home in Riverside, California, under the care of her doctor and husband.

According to De Leon, who was at James' home on December 10, she's on oxygen and resting, mostly. Her sons do live close by and visit often, De Leon says.

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Garricke Piccuillob

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mrs etta James may God bless and keep your heart and mind in perfect peace through Jesus Christ amen
iam praying for you i belive in the power of prayer where two or three are gathered Jesus said he would be in the mist of it he touch you amen

She is brought such great music with alot of soul. If only we still had singers like that now a days instead of hearing about how they want to drop or shake their booty. Take some advice Rihanna/Beyonne it's classy not be so trashy!!

You have been an inspiration to me as an artist and will continue to be the rest of my life...thank you for sharing your enormous talent with us..something we will cherish always...you are excellence...

OH DEAR I DONT EVEN KNOW WHO YOU ARE BUT THE I ASK THAT YOU CAN BE TOUCHED RIGHT NOW BY JESUS THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THAT YOU CAN BE COMPLETELY CURED SO THE NAME OF JESUS CAN BE GLORIFIED HALELUIAS MY SON WAS CURED FROM GLAUCOMA AND HE CAN SEE AGAIN WE SERVE THE GOD OF IMPOSSIBLE TOUCH HER NOW GOD PUT UR HANDAS AROUND HER FAMILY..AND WE THANK YOU FOR THIS MIRACLE AMEM

Been a fan of Etta James for many many years. I had the opportunity to see her at the Silverado in Reno when she was 70. Great entertainer – loved seeing her in person and share my moments freely. Our prayers are with Etta and her family to be able to maintain strength during this time.

Hooray to those who rembered "Take It To the Limit" and "Sugar on the Floor," two great songs from that wonderful album she made with ex-Atlantic Records producer Jerry Wexler (RIP), She'd always wanted to work with him, and he gave her some very interesting songs. "At Last" might be her popular classic, but i saw Etta during her blues-rocker days, and that's the Etta I love. Come to think of it, "Piece of My Heart" on that album was fantastic. Etta's maybe the only singer other than Janis who should be allowed to sing that anthem. And BTW, one of the writers of "Piece" died a month ago, Jerry Ragovoy, another great contributor to some classic blues-rock.

The cold calloused remark that was made is literally a sick mind at work. I am not happy with either party but to use affiliation to anything at a time like this will put you in Hades. Don't have children and if that's too late find them a good home.

Why is everyone acting like she's died? I have Leukemia and have been on my death bed 4 times and I'm still here. Etta – mind over matter. Stop saying "you will be missed" and say "can't wait for your next concert."

Blessings to Ms. Etta, her family and all her fans. My favorite song by her is I'd Rather Go Blind. Her singing it with Dr. John is just something every fan should see. Pray for the trolls on here. Realize that they lead such boring and sad lives, that they get pleasure from being told off.

I publicly submit (propose) my unique procedure. For optimal results, such is to be conducted prior to a lleukemia patient having been medicated or introduced to chemotherapy / radiation-therapy.

PROCEDURE: (To stabilize DNA) A narrow, gold filament approximately 10 inches in length is inserted within the femurs' marrow and connected externally to sizeable, "well-grounded" leads. This procedure is to continue (without interruption), for an extended period (at least 30 days). The patient's blood is to be analyzed on a daily basis, for positive results...... GOD Bless!

Freedom of Speech is one thing, to come on here and spout your bile when someone is fighting for their life is something entirely different. You commentors that spew such hate are just like the Westboro Baptist Church minions. CNN, where are your moderators? Cancel the accounts of individuals like these. These sub-humans don't deserve to dwell in society, and I wish the worst upon them.

Wow. U r all so ridiculous. Its people like u who make such a big deal about something so minscule as a comment someone makes tha makes them make those comments that u hate! Ms. Etta james fare well and RIP when the time comes. Thank u fo ur time in this world. Which is wat this is really about. not dudes comment. Who cares?!

This is so sad. I wished she could have sang her own song at President Obama's Inauguration. When I saw Beyonce singing it, I said out loud why didn't he let Etta sing her own song? Etta you are, and always will be. one of the Best Blues & Jazz singers of all time. That voice of yours is so beautiful and original. We love you!!!

You don't really think the president decides who is going to be doing what at his own ceremonies...do you? Oh yes, and he plans the menus each week for the white house dining room, decides what the flower arrangements will be throughout the white house, and by the way – if he's in town during the week – he typically mows the white house lawn and sweeps the street in front of the white house!!

I pray for her a peaceful and painless passing. She was an amazing talent and her music will surely live on into eternity. God be with her family and friends during this time of great sorrow. Thank you Ms. Etta for all you did here. God rest you dear lady.

On behalf of my wife and I and every couple who have danced to your "legendary, iconic" song....... thank you Etta!! Now kick go blow everyone away at the great big gig in the sky with that special voice!!! You will never be forgotten.

May the true and living bless you and keep you in his unchanging right hand I love your songs and music.I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Peace and love always my queen.I'll never forget you.

Etta, you will always be a timeless treasure...
Your "At Last" was chosen by my daughter as the first dance with her new husband at their wedding...the same song that I danced with my late husband at our own wedding!

I have never been a fan of female singers. However, Etta James is an exception. I purchased her records! Her voice has so much feeling! VERY EXCEPTIONAL! She has touched me deep within with her voice. Oh, if only I could sing like her, what joy! Thank goodness she was sent to us!

Ms. James...may God hold you in the palm of his hand... every time my wife and I hear "At Last" we realize how lucky we are to be married to each other, with all due respect: your version is the only version.

I LOVE Etta!!!! I have seen her live a few times throughout the years and she was ALWAYS AWESOME!!!. But as much as I love her rendition of " At least", she's was NOT the first person to sing it, and the first recording is big band great!!!(if you're into the old and original 40's recordings of a lot of songs!).
Anyway, she was looking very good lately and this is just sad!
Go buy one of her first live concerts to know why she was so good...and have a glass of wine to celebrate her life!
Think about how great JANIS was at singing "Tell mama" while you're at it, too!

I had the great pleasure of seeing Etta many times, once in New Orleans. I have loved her music and voice for a very long time. Her rendition of "At Last" is my absolute favorite and is the song that plays when my husband calls me. If you don't have Seven Year Itch in your collection, go out and get it – hands down her best album. We will miss you Etta, but you live on through your great treasury of songs!

I used to work for Etta and for Lupe. I'm saddened to hear that she will no longer be with us shortly. She is a remarkable woman and brought amazing talent to music. Thank you, Etta. Rest in peace, I shall never forget watching you be you.

Back n the day every girl i knew wanted to look like etta james n the 50's_70's i found my future husband listening to etta we stayed togather 37 years until he pass away there is no singer that can ever replace your voice love u etta james "misty blue" was my favorite n "stop the wedding," praying 4 u

Its so sad that people can be so cruel when someone is dying. What is this world coming to? I love her music/songs, I listen to them on the web quiet a bit. She has a great voice. I am keeping her in my prayers. It would be nice if people are going to be negative that they don't comment. Being positive take little effort, being negative takes a great deal of effort. Please leave politics out of this. Everything is not about politics. God Bless!!!!

To Mrs.James and family keep the Faith!My prayers are with you!God is still on the throne.satan's kids are known by what rotten words that roll off their tongues.THank GOD for your great voice and songs you sang.God will take care of you and your family.only GOD' children will be here at Last!On that great getting up morning.AT LAST!

Thank you Etta, yours is one of the most beautiful voices to grace the airwaves. "At Last" will always be your signature song. Any other version will be second. May God's love embrace you and your family in this difficult time.

Thank you and god bless you for the years of perserverence, strength and beautiful, hot & sassy songs that you gave us.Loved you in Phoenix in 2009 ish with your sons . A concert that I still talk about and will always remember. Happy journeys into the next life, may you be a blessing once again to the next generation! More Sugar on the Floor! :)

Etta was one of the most amazing voices in one of the most amazing eras in American music. And that's saying something. I hope she is comfortable and at peace. Everyone will go through the process Etta is experiencing right now, but very few will leave a legacy and a body of work anywhere close to that of hers. She is one of the greats, and she and her family should be very proud of her contributions. God speed, Etta.

everyone is terminal, its just we know one of the possibilities of how Etta will exit this world, sooner.
This planet will miss this voice,
Just keep singing into the next one, I'll be listening for you like I always do. til next time mon ami.

Dearest Etta, when all the world still counted out women, and blacks, and particularly black women, you stood up in the shadow of the dying Billie Holiday and staked your claim to the heart of blues and jazz fans everywhere with "At Last" when you were just a teen! May God and his Angels fly you where your music always flies me, doll – straight to heaven. Rest In Well Deserved Peace, I Love You!

I had the pleasure of seeing this woman in concert in early 90's when I was a teenager. My father was a blues fan and the whole family went to the Philly waterfront blues festival in penns landing. Etta James was the headliner and she made me a fan . I thought the concert was boring but when she took the stage she killed it . Ridiculous. what and american treasure . May God Bless you Ms. james !!

Your the best etta.your songs are from the heart. And have a true meanning of reality for everyone.im so sad to here of your illness.your voice and songs will never die.and you will relive a beautiful life in heaven with the angels your voice will still be heard for eternity good bless you.love you forever.you will be leaving us with the bigest everlasting gift anyone could give."your love for music the songs you sing with ypur beautiful voice and from yoour wonderful heart.take care.lorraine rodriguez from la puente calif.

Yet her being terminally ill is more important to CNN than the actual death of Christopher Hitchens today? The story on Hitchens was gone from the top stories.. and from the whole front pages links section before noon today.

Etta James I'd would rather go blind then to see you walk away from me. Only because you are my Dearest Darling. At last I can now tell you How much your music has meant to me. Etta you will always be in my heart and soul. God Bless You.

Etta, you're a living legend, and your music will surely last forever, past the fads and the silly, insipid noise that masquerades as music today. Your contribution to humanity is immeasurable, and those of who respect what you've done with your art, and to ours, will always have you with us in our hearts. Bless you, Etta!

I know where all sad but ms james is going to a better place she will b with jesus she wont b in any more pain we loved u and appreciated u while u were here but know its time to be with god all my love and respect

Usually I just read the comments but I must say that At Last was her most notable song but not the best buy an album or 2 and get the full effect of her beauty they don't makem like her anymore she's one of the best ever and Byonce is not of the same cloth whatsoever.

I hope this question isn't one I shouldn't ask, but someone recently said Anderson Cooper of CNN was gay. I had never heard that and if he is openly gay, it certainly is okay with me but wanted to be able to accept or deny this allegation. Thank you.

In the movie "Cadillac Records" it was made reference that Minnesota Fats was her dad but don't know if that is true. Any way, "At Last" is a beautiful song and sung equally beautiful by Ms. James. May God bless her family.

Diva sass..soul sista class, songs full of heart and soul,personal triumps and tragedies, these things seasoned every song she sung. NO other little wannabe can touch that! Why try? RIP dear Lady of song:'(

May the Lord bless you and your family.Why do some people have to say bad things about other people when they dont even know them.They need Jesus some people have no repect.At Last Mrs Etta i wish you could sing it one more time.

I'm young and hadn't heard of her until Josh Krajcik performed "At Last" on X Factor USA. His beautiful rendition lead me to discover her original beautiful rendition and all of her other work. I'm not a fan and am sad to hear of her illness. Thanks for your great music!

One of the all-time greats. "At Last," will always be her signature song. No one, not even Beyonce', can do it like Etta did it. She sang it from her experiences with no computer voice enhancements. Even after she's gone, she'll still be singing for a long time. God bless her!!

Oh right...I forgot that in order to care about individuals you have to personally know them. Aren't we allowed to feel compassion for others regardless of whether or not we have personal relationships with them?

Guys, the internet troll strives for attention and to instigate emotionally charged responses from those who otherwise have better things to do. Best thing to do with these morons is ignore them and don't let their stupidity ruin your day.

People can show their compassion towards people even if it is not returned... it's called unconditional love. Maybe you were disappointed in your life because you probably felt like you deserved other people's love and got nothing to show for it. Go hug yourself in the mirror. It's okay.

Not only "At Last" But her very first hit "Wallflower (Roll with me Henry), "Stop the wedding", "trust in me", "blind girl"(recently performed by Rachel Crowe on x-factor),"fool that I am" ,"all I could do was cry" and many others. I grew up with her music. My prayers are with Miss Etta. Beyonce who????????

Etta, your song "At Last", was one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard. There are times in which the artist and the song come together to create magic. This was one of those rare times. Thank you.

One time in my office around 1980 the delivery man came in when her song “I’d Rather Go Blind” was playing and he asked me “Who is the woman imitating Janis Joplin?” and I explained it was the other way around. I wish the best for her.

Wow...... this is really sad news. I heard about her being hospitalized at some point but had no clue that she was this ill. We will once again lose another legendary person who has touched so many hearts with their voice. Mrs. Etta James, you've touched us all, you will never be forgotten, and 'At Last' will continue to be the #1 all time favorite love song. Thank you for helping many of us create such beautiful memories with your unforgettable music.

She made so much great music in a career that spanned decades. Her talent was timeless. I guess every artist has a "signature" song, but I'll remember Miss Etta James for much more than just "At Last."

This is terrible news. I hope she knows how much fans around the world appreciate her, especially considering the trash that's on the radio these days. Whether she only has a few months, weeks, or days left, I hope they are without pain and filled with love, happiness, friends, family, and a satisfaction for the life she'd led. She should be proud of her accomplishments.

Of course Beyonce can't hold a candle to Etta yet... but you really should find Beyonce's rendition of "At Last" that she sang at Obama's inaugural ball... it WAS incredible. Maybe not on the order of Etta's version – but pretty damned good.

Etta James is an all time great singer. She has performned many times at the Playboy Jazz Festival over the years and hearing her sing "at Last" live is something to remember always. Thanks Etta for all you have given us. We will never forget you or your amazing voice. You made the world a better place.

Never cared for the song "At Last", even though I think Etta James has a beautiful voice...She's definitely left a lasting impression on all those who've listened to her...May the Lord rest her soul...

Saying you don't like the song "At Last" is like saying you don't like Kittens, Puppies, or breathing. Its a f'ing beautiful timeless composition that is a classic piece of Americana. Its one of those perfect melodies that stays with you for generations. Like "Let it Be" or "Gimme Shelter".

Actually Etta never cared much for "At Last" either. In fact, she once said she hated it when people asked her to sing it. She much preferred to sing songs like "I'd Rather Go Blind" which she felt were much more "natural" to her. Myself, I love every single note the dear Lady ever sang!

Monrob – Again, you prove your ignorance. You are guilty of exactly what you are condemning. Two individuals who are expressing their opinions about your ignorant post (it was ignorant) and yet you tell them they shouldn't be able to express their opinions about what you've said ?! They did it politely and correctly, and yet you throw it back at them by using a vulgar attack and telling them that they shouldn't express their opinion. You need to realize why people are condeming what you said. It's not that you shouldn't be "allowed" to say it, but it's inconceivable that in a discussion about a woman and her terminal illness, you chose to post a "joke" ? I will fight for your right to express your free speech, however I will shake my head in astonishment at the degree of ignorance and heartlessness that you've expressed. Grow up.

You need to learn the time, and place for a "Joke." (You also need to learn the meaning of the word) Most children are taught early about respect. Go to the political page and rag them, your immaturity will fit right in.

With freedom of speech comes the responsibilty how to use it.
You have abused it.
To everyone posting, he is just a little troll looking for attention.
STOP giving it to him.
When he is ignored, he will get bored and go away.
Better yet, report abuse.

Didnt know you, wouldn't wanna be you.....but may you rest in peace. As for the 'blessed' people that must resort to names calling toward those you disagree with... you would do well to be more 'Etta like'..rather than your usual ignorant self of only seeing your own point of view.

Monrob seems like an idiot, but we don't know for sure...he could be just an immature highschool kid who doesn;t know any better or something. I'm sure he learn to take the feelings of others into consdieration, when commenting about people experiencing serious health issues as he matures.

What a sad thing, that you can't hold in mind two things at once, that a person can have views that we disagree with and may still give great gifts. Miss Etta has done much for the world and at the end of life we are neither Republican nor Democrat, but fragile beings facing a Great Unknown, all the same. I hope you someday can see that, long before you're the one who needs the rest of us, D and R alike.

Ask god for forgiveness of being a republican?!? Unfortunately with the freedom of speech in this great country of ours we have to hear from mindless, welfare receiving horrible lazy people like you. You should be ashamed.

Steve – I think you have it backwards. It is you who should be ashamed. Why would you jump to the conclusion that just because someone does not hold to your beliefs, they are a "mindless, horrible, lazy welfare recipient? Your words are not only hateful but it shows your ignorance. I feel sorry for people who feel the need to be so mean. I would take a good hard look inward buddy.

One of the reasons why I hate this country is because people like you judge people for being who they want to be. It is called a "free country", but it seems to die off with more and more people like you.

Where in the hell did u get your information. some of u just make up stories about celebrities political parties. like Dr King was a republican which was another lie. He supported Johnson's re election and also supported Kennedy both John & Bobby. Oh, by the way AT LAST was great but that's not Etta's only great song how about LOVIN U MORE EVERYDAY

I did not see any humor in ANY of your remarks. Hopefully you are not a stand -up comic or you might well starve to death sir. I will pray for you, AFTER praying for the soul of Ms. James. A lady as well as a great talent who touch millions in a POSITIVE way.

While this beautiful Lady will live on forever in Song we must continue to sing the beautiful melody to those who have never heard it. My wife who is a Jazz and Blues singer does sing "At Last' quite frequently in her performances and from now on it will have an even more special meaning to us. We cannot let this type of music go by the wayside. God Bless Etta James and thanks for all you have given use.

Not only will she be remembered for her rendition of a beautiful song, "At Last," but she was one of the greatest blues singers of all time with an incredible range. That she lived to be in her 70's is an achievement in itself.

Etta maintained in her autobiography that she believed Minnosota fats was her dad, though she never knew him as her dad. She said a lot of white men used to come into the hood for nookie and on more than one occasion he came in to see her mom. don't know if it is true–but it would have been nice if she could have been reconciled with both sides of her family before she goes.